Jonny Howson is close to agreeing a new deal at Leeds which will keep him at Elland Road beyond the end of next season.

The 23-year-old skipper is currently under contract until the end of the 2012/13 campaign but is in talks over extending his stay.

Howson said: “They’re going well. We’ve been in talks for the past month or so and although it’s taking a bit of time, I’m not in a massive rush.

“That’s always the way with negotiations but I’m sure they’ll be finalised and I’ll sign soon.

“I think for any professional player it’s an ambition to play at the highest level and I’m no different.

“In an ideal situation I’d love to do that with Leeds and hopefully that’s where we’ll be next season.”